Mildenhall chief aids pedestrian, thwarts tragedy

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Denise Johnson
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF Mildenhall --  Chief Master Sgt. Mark Gagnon, 100th Mission Support Squadron chief enlisted manager, put his Self Aid Buddy Care training to the test as he rushed to the aid of a pedestrian in the throws of a seizure in Haverhill town center Oct. 14. 

Chief Gagnon was driving through the town center when he noticed an individual collapse to the sidewalk. His 25 years of training and experience took over as he instructed his wife to pull over into a safe location before making his way to the young man. 

"I just remember the sense of urgency I felt," he said. "I was very concerned for his well-being." 

The chief began the steps that could save a stranger's life by going over the basic life saving steps taught in Self Aid Buddy Care and outlined in Air Force Manual 10-100, Critical Information Checklist. 

While the individual was overtaken by violent shaking, the chief reacted, ensuring the victim didn't further injure himself. He also instructed bystanders to call 999 for British emergency services. 

"You react so quickly ... your main concern is just making sure they're OK," Chief Gagnon said. 

Quick thinking and the desire to do the right thing spurred the chief into responding to the emergency. He also attributes his deployment training to his ability to respond calmly and decisively. 

"People can be frightened in a situation like that; they look for someone to make decisions," he said. "I'm just glad I was able to help." 

The chief enlisted advisor's staff is also glad he was there, said Capt. Katherine Lewis, 100th Military Personnel Flight commander. 

"It just gives us one more reason to be proud of him, He's terrific."
The chief said it seemed like ages before the ambulance arrived, but it was probably only about five minutes. By then the victim was regaining consciousness, and the para-medics took over. 

The man's future seemed assured as he was taken to a medical facility for care.
Chief Gagnon possibly thwarted a tragedy by providing the proper first-response care and ensuring required medical attention was provided. 

"The first responder on a scene can make a tremendous difference in the outcome," said Tech. Sgt. Rob Graham, 100th Air Refueling Wing. 

Sergeant Graham is the noncommissioned officer in charge of Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape training as well as an SABC instructor. 

"It is imperative, as the chief said, to have someone take control of the situation," he said. "Luckily, he was able to do that."